Responding to new research from the National Governance
Association (NGA) showing increased concerns among school
governors when it comes to safeguarding and self-harm among
school pupils, James Bowen, assistant general secretary at school
leaders' union NAHT, said:
“This report shows that school leaders and governors are very
much on the same page when it comes to their concerns about
schools. Balancing the budget and a recruitment and retention
crisis are issues that concern leaders and governors equally.
"When it comes to mental health, these worrying findings sadly
echo what we hear from school leaders.
“In the wake of the pandemic, and now cost of living crisis, a
perfect storm of rising demand following a decade of
under-investment in vital community services means schools are
finding it harder than ever to access external help when they
identify pupils in need of support. Staff who were already
stretched are increasingly having to act as social workers and
counsellors and this is not sustainable.
“The government must ensure that every school has fully funded
mental health support available for their pupils and invest much
more in social care, CAMHS (children’s and young people’s mental
health services) and other frontline services so they can meet
growing demand and reduce waiting times.”
On the finding that (37%) said their school buildings were not in
good condition, Mr Bowen added: “This chimes with what our
members tell us and shows that the school buildings crisis
extends far beyond issues with RAAC.
“It is a legacy of a decade of government cuts to maintenance,
refurbishment and rebuilding of the school estate. This adds
further weight to our call for the current emergency to be a
turning point which finally prompts ministers to produce a
long-term plan supported by significant new funding to ensure all
school buildings and safe and fit for purpose.”
